Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II joined the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) today to kick off “Reach for the Pie,” a statewide initiative and contest, in partnership with Hungry Howie’s and Michigan Credit Union League, encouraging students and parents to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to lower the cost of college and unlock valuable financial aid opportunities such as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship.

The goal of the initiative is to encourage Michigan students to complete the FAFSA to increase access to student aid. By completing the FAFSA, class of 2024 students will be eligible to enter the contest for a chance to win free Hungry Howie’s pizza for a year. The prize will be awarded to 100 randomly selected students. The deadline to enter the contest is June 30, 2024. MiLEAP’s MI Student Aid will post the list of winners on www.reachforthepie.org on or after Aug. 1, 2024.

“Reach for the Pie” comes as the White House and the U.S. Department of Education recently declared April 15-19 the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Week of Action, advocating a concerted effort from all stakeholders at all levels to assist students and families with completing the 2024 FAFSA.

 “With FAFSA, students can ‘Reach for the Pie,’ and unlock doors to opportunity,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “They can access critical financial aid like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which offers up to $27,500 for college. The Achievement Scholarship is a cornerstone of our vision to remove financial barriers and ensure that by 2030, 60% of Michiganders will hold a postsecondary credential. We will keep working hard to pave the way for future leaders.”

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship, established to lower the cost of college and support the state’s educational goals, offers significant financial assistance to eligible high school graduates. This scholarship, along with other state-funded programs such as Michigan Reconnect, Tuition Incentive Program and MI Future Educator programs, aim to increase access to higher education and workforce development.

“There has never been a better time for students to explore financial aid. The new streamlined FAFSA process can open scholarship and grant opportunities like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, providing all Michiganders an affordable path to college.,” said Michelle Richard, acting director of MiLEAP. “Our goal with ‘Reach for the Pie’ is to not only make students aware of these opportunities but also to incentivize them to take action and complete the FAFSA now so they can enroll in college this fall.”

“Filling out the FAFSA is the gateway to unlocking scholarship opportunities, including the new Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which provides up to $8,250 over three years at a community or tribal college, up to $27,500 over five years at a four-year public college or university or up to $20,000 over five years at a private college or university,” said Diann Cosme, director of MiLEAP’s MI Student Aid. “By participating in this statewide FAFSA initiative, students not only have the chance to win free pizza for a year but also take a significant step toward securing their financial future.”

“Encouraging students and families to complete the FAFSA is not just about accessing federal student aid or grants; it’s about making a smart financial decision,” said Kieran Marion, executive vice president of advocacy for the Michigan Credit Union League (MCUL) and the Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF). “This event exemplifies MCUL’s priorities to provide Michiganders with access to pathways for financial growth and stability, and by supporting this FAFSA initiative, MCUL and MCUF are demonstrating their commitment to financial literacy, empowering individuals to make smart financial decisions and advancing the broader goal of promoting financial health and security for all.”

The pizza is provided through a partnership with Hungry Howie’s.

“Our independently owned and operated franchises are deeply rooted in their communities,” said Kevin Dittrich, franchisee owner of Hungry Howie’s in the Lansing area. “We are excited to partner with MiLEAP and MI Student Aid to provide incentive for students to complete their FAFSA and have more opportunities for financial aid.”

Applications to attend Ferris State University are up nearly 40 percent from a year ago – and are at an all-time high.

Now university specialists are ready to help prospective students take the next steps and register for classes, guiding them through the enrollment and financial aid processes and sharing details about housing and other options.

Dean of Enrollment Services Kristen Salomonson said 18,772 students have applied to enroll for the Fall 2024 semester, up from 13,457 at this time in 2023, and greater than the 16,839 applicants in the pre-pandemic year of 2018.

The figures include the Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, which is seeing a 47 percent increase from a year ago. 

University leaders say the application increase is likely tied to students of all ages learning about educational opportunities that will prepare them for rewarding careers and taking classes in a supportive environment with resources to help them succeed.

“Applications are at an all-time high as students recognize the quality and affordability of a Ferris State education,” Salomonson said. “Ferris State degrees lead to great jobs, here in Michigan. The application is the first step, and we are ready to help students enroll in classes that will change their lives.”

A Ferris State application is free and can be found at ferris.edu/apply.

Applications are coming from students graduating from high school this spring, community college graduates looking to continue their education, and older students looking to start or restart their education to gain skills and advance in their careers.

Many Ferris State academic programs are available online, with assistance available at Student Success Hubs across the state.

The university has 180 programs leading to associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees, small class sizes, and a hands-on approach that will help students move at the speed of industry.

The Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, located in the heart of Grand Rapids’ thriving cultural scene, offers undergraduate and undergraduate degrees in fields including fine arts, graphic and product design, and architecture.

The Ferris State Admissions Department has hotlines to assist students. Anyone seeking help with applications, transcripts, visits, orientation, and other admissions features can call 231-591-2000 or email admissions@ferris.edu.

Students can get assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid – also known as FAFSA – by calling 231-591-2110 and emailing finaid@ferris.edu. The team can also assist with questions about scholarships, grants, and loans. Students also can schedule one-on-one appointments online.

Salomonson said she knows many students are delaying making a college decision until they hear details about federal financial aid, which has been delayed while the U.S. Department of Education revamps the FAFSA process.

Ferris State is sending students financial award letters this week even though administrators and prospective students are awaiting additional information.

The university helping students make those decisions by increasing the amount of money available in some merit-based Woodbridge N. Ferris Scholarships for new students that are based on academic performance. Increases vary between $500 and $1,500 depending on the scholarship. Those awarded a $1,500 Crimson Scholarship will see a $1,500 increase. Students earning a $3,500 Dean’s Scholarship will get a $1,000 increase.

Students receiving $6,000 President’s Scholarships and $5,000 Provost’s Scholarships will see a $500 increase. The dollar amount for a $1,000 Ferris Forward Scholarship will be the same, but it will be available to more students as students with a 2.25 high school grade point average are now eligible, adjusted from the prior 2.50 requirement.

Woodbridge N. Ferris Scholarship funds are available for students who have already applied and been accepted, as well as those still to apply for the fall 2024 semester.

The university also encourages students to look at its ScholarshipUniverse program, which provides access to thousands of scholarships.

Additional information about the scholarships is available at this link. Bulldog Bonus information is available at this link.

 Ferris State University's scheduled non-conference doubleheader against the Northwood Timberwolves slated for Wednesday (April 17) in Midland has been cancelled due to impending rain and weather conditions.

The two-game set will not be made up between the two former Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) counterparts.

With the cancellation, the Bulldogs will next be back in action on Saturday (April 20) as FSU hosts Parkside in a GLIAC doubleheader at the FSU Softball Field. First pitch is slated for 1 p.m. (ET) for game one with game two scheduled for a 3 p.m. (ET) start. Saturday will be Military Appreciation Day and all active military members and veterans are encouraged to attend. Admission is free and the Bulldogs will be donning camo jerseys for the contest.

Ferris State then hosts Purdue Northwest on Sunday (April 21) for Senior Day beginning at 1 p.m. (ET) and 3 p.m. (ET) for games one and two, respectively.

The Bulldogs currently own a 21-20 overall record to date this year and are presently near the top of the GLIAC standings with a 9-7 overall conference record.

Stay tuned to FerrisStateBulldogs.com for any additional schedule changes throughout the season.

Yesterday, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) joined local community members, business leaders and stakeholders to discuss Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s FY25 budget recommendations in Capac, MI. The discussion focused on rural issues and what LEO’s Office of Rural Prosperity is doing to foster strategic and coordinated investments in people and places, with an intentional focus on building the capacity and resources necessary to address complex rural needs.   

"Rural communities play an integral role in Michigan’s economy,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “We are honored to host this roundtable event and bring together local community members, business leaders and stakeholders to discuss the investments being made to ensure rural communities have the funds and resources to solve their most complex issues.” 

In February, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released her sixth executive budget recommendation that will lower costs, power economic development and build a brighter future to ensure any person or business can “make it” in Michigan. The proposed budget includes $2.5M Rural Prosperity Grants to enhance regional and statewide coordination of services in rural communities. These grants would be overseen by Office of Rual Prosperity, who joined LEO late last year. 

"Rural communities are facing unprecedented opportunities, but at the same time, they often have issues solving complex challenges like housing shortages and health access, due to the lack of funding or staff resources,” said Sarah Lucas, director of the Office of Rural Prosperity. “The proposed $2.5M investment towards additional grant opportunities for our rural communities puts vital dollars in underserved areas across the state a to ensure residents have the resources they need to respond to the urgent, complex needs in their communities, while also preparing for the important opportunities in front of them.” 

In just a short time, Office of Rural Prosperity has made big strides for rural communities:  

• Created in mid-2022 with only three staff joining in early 2023, they were able to launch the Rural Readiness Grant Program last year that’s now supporting rural innovations in housing, healthcare access, infrastructure and more, and will leverage millions of dollars in investment across the state.   
• Built an extensive network of rural partners and resources, ensured rural needs were a part of new policies and programs across state government and developed a comprehensive statewide strategy – the Roadmap for Rural Prosperity, just released last month, which includes a vision for coordinated action.  

"We are grateful for programs and initiatives like the Rural Readiness Grants and the Roadmap for Rural Prosperity that actively address the issues that rural communities face today,” said Kathy Dickens, executive director of Four County Community Foundation. “With the Rural Readiness Grants, Four County Community Foundation has been able to implement a grant writing internship program that will give communities the knowledge to apply for additional funding opportunities. We are excited to see the potential for more funding that will positively impact our rural communities and their residents.” 

Rural Prosperity programs are a necessary tool to make sure we're investing in underserved areas across the state, giving everyone an equal playing field to address a wide range of needs that lead to positive change for Michigan residents. By investing $2.5M for Rural Prosperity grants and programs the Michigan will be able to build on the road map, lift up more communities and fund projects that will address complex challenges like housing shortages and health access.   

To learn more about Rural Prosperity, their programs and initiatives visit, Michigan.gov/ORP. 

Spencer Hope, a Product Design major at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, earned a place in the finalist stage in a prestigious international contest, making him one of the most promising young designers on the planet.

Hope competed in the 2024 International Society of Furniture Designers INNOVATION DESIGN competition. Open to both design students and industry professionals on a global level, the annual competition promotes the outstanding work of the world’s finest designers and makers.

This year, a record number of entries was judged by a panel of ISFD board members and other industry professionals who evaluated each product’s innovation, construction, function, construction technique, and aesthetics.

Hope’s entry, a sconce dubbed “Empyrean,” was one of eight student finalist designs for 2024. Finalists’ pieces were judged while on display at the American Home Furnishings Hall of Fame in High Point, North Carolina from April 4-17, in conjunction with Spring High Point Market, a trade show that stands as the pinnacle of the home furnishings industry.

While he did not win, Hope found plenty of value in the opportunity to take part in the prestigious event and enlarge his network.

“Getting to connect with other students and professionals, listen to people who are far better than I can be right now, and be a part of the greater design world is just an amazing opportunity,” he said.

“Empyrean” was inspired by the awestruck emotions people feel when coming face-to-face with something that takes their breath away. The layered lighting fixture embraces its emitted light as a design element, using organic shapes and repeated geometry to cast a celestial glow onto the wall above.

“I wanted to convey the sense of beholding something,” Hope said. “There’s a higher energy that comes with this angelic light that I tried to capture in a material sense.”

The sconce began with a series of sketches, which helped Hope focus ideas for refinement in a CAD program. After finishing the design, he crafted a custom plywood form, vacuum-molded a black walnut veneer over that, and sanded the finish—all in the KCAD woodshop. Next, he cut the outer form, making a custom jig to guide the slots that would hold the lamp’s acrylic fins.

Once the wood form was ready, he clear-coated it to create a glossy finish on the surface. He then used the laser cutter in the KCAD FLEXlab digital fabrication facility to cut out the fins from 1/4" acrylic. Each fin was sandblasted to create a frosted look that would diffuse the light, then glued into place. Finally, he cut the stamped aluminum base, assembled the lamp, and added the wiring, lightbulb, and wall mount.

“There were a lot of challenges in this piece, specifically creating those slot cuts,” Hope said. “When I got to that point in the design, I was tens of hours into my development, and it's all behind a jig so you really can't eyeball anything.”

One of the questions with any piece of art or design is deciding when it’s complete. Hope explained, “There comes a point where everything's adhered, everything's together, and any more finishing is going to upset whatever surface treatment I've done. But in a more abstract sense, is a piece ever finished? I don't know. I think it becomes finished in what it can do and what happens when it lands in front of people's eyes. For my work to be finished, it has to be felt and received.”

The Cardinals remain undefeated following a series with Shepherd Monday, defeating the Blue Jays by scores of 9-3 and 12-0.

Big Rapids used big hits in the middle of the order, with a combined five RBI's from Mason McNeilly, Ty Gielczyk, and Isaac Zocco to push the Cardinals home seven runs in the final two innings to win game one. McNielly finsihed the game with two of the Cardinals' five extra base hits. Gielczyk got the win with five innings of work, only two earned runs and eight strikeouts on 82 pitches. Noah Sweppenheiser finished last two innings giving up no hits or runs with four strikeouts.

"We came out ready to hit. Pretty much hitters one through nine, in both games, had solid approaches at the plate and executed," Head coach J.T. Scarpelli said. "Gielczyk and McNeilly showed that they are two of the most powerful bats in the area. 

Game two was a continuation of game one's momentum offensively, as Big Rapids shelled 12 runs in the first four innings on 10 hits to end the game in five innings. Sophomore Cole Haist held the Blue Jays runnerless through all five frames with the help of a strong defensive effort. Phillip Wilbur led the Cards with three hits and five runs batted in and two runs. Gielczyk also added a home run and Zocco registering a triple.

"Haist’s box score speaks for itself," Scarpelli said. "Cole was perfect through five innings and he only threw 45 pitches. He attacked the hitters early and often getting into only three two-ball counts and nothing deeper. He used his defense including his own glove. Cole was very impressive."

Big Rapids faces White Cloud at home in a conference twinbill on Friday at 4:00 and 6:00 P.M.

Monday, April 8

• An officer took a report from a caller stating that some kids keep knocking very loudly on his door and then run away.
• While patrolling, an officer found a mattress lying in front of a house after large trash pickup. The officer contacted the homeowner and the mattress was taken care of.
• An officer conducted a welfare check on a 44-year-old female. The officer arrived at the location, and the female was found to be fine.

Tuesday, April 9

• No incidents reported.

Wednesday, April 10

• An officer conducted a welfare check on an 80-year-old male after a concerned citizen called. Upon arrival, the subject was determined to be fine.
• An officer conducted a welfare check on a 56-year-old female as she called dispatch and was making suicidal comments. After contacting her son, the subject was taken to the hospital for an evaluation.
• An officer investigated a report of a minor car accident that occurred within a parking lot. No injuries occurred and only minor damage was sustained to the vehicles.
• An officer investigated an incident where medical documents were being withheld from the victim. Through investigation, the second party was contacted and the documents were returned.

Thursday, April 11

• No incidents reported.

Friday, April 12

• While patrolling, an officer observed a semi-tractor parked on the roadway within a residential area. After contacting the driver, the semi-tractor was moved.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop for an expired registration plate.

Saturday, April 13

• While patrolling, an Officer found a business back door unlocked. After contacting the keyholder, the building was searched and secured.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop for a defective taillight.

Sunday, April 14

• An officer conducted a traffic stop for a window tint violation.
• An officer issued an abatement letter concerning refuse on a property within the city.
• Officers investigated an assault complaint, where a juvenile through a rock at and struck another juvenile.

Ferris State University Athletics has officially announced a partnership with Athlete's Thread, providing the Bulldogs' nearly 400 student-athletes an exciting platform to showcase their own brand and to financially benefit from their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL).

The partnership allows every Bulldog student-athlete to sell customizable gear and jerseys with their name and number and receive monetary compensation for a portion of each sale. 

Athlete's Thread is a leading supplier of NIL merchandise, which allows student-athletes the ability to take advantage of opportunities to sell merchandise while using FSU's official logos and trademarks under current NCAA guidelines.

Presently, Athlete's Thread works with more than 100 colleges and universities, providing over 10,000 athletes with high-quality merchandise and jerseys to leverage their own NIL rights and create their own brand.

"We're excited to partner with Athlete's Thread and to support our student-athletes with a way to benefit from their own Name, Image and Likeness," said FSU Athletics Director Steve Brockelbank. "This partnership with Athlete's Thread gives our student-athletes a platform to engage with fans through custom and personalized Bulldog apparel and an avenue to profit themselves."

Bulldog student-athletes will be able to sign up and partner with Athlete's Thread, earning commissions on all merchandise sales. When partnering with Athlete's Thread, student-athletes earn 12 percent commissions on all merchandise sales, with the opportunity to earn an additional 10-15 percent commissions by sharing their affiliate link – a total of 22-27 percent. All partnerships are non-exclusive.

The NIL opportunity is open to all student-athletes at Ferris State University. Athlete's Thread believes that every athlete has an amazing story to tell, and it is their mission to empower them to share it.

As an approved licensee with Ferris State University, Athlete's Thread will contract directly with interested Bulldog student-athletes to design and create NIL licensed product as well as launch personalized online stores. Among the items offered for purchase include: replica jerseys, sweatshirts, shirseys and caricature designs with youth and adult sizing options. New gear featuring Ferris State student-athlete names, numbers and likeness will be added continuously as they opt to sign with Athlete's Thread.  

For more information on Ferris State Athletics, visit FerrisStateBulldogs.com or follow Ferris State Athletics on all social media platforms.

Athlete's Thread can be found online at AthletesThread.com. A link for Ferris State University will be available once athletes beginning registration and partner with the company.

All fans of local businesses and artists are invited by the city of Big Rapids next Saturday, as it will be hosting a local business and artisan fair.

The fair will take place on Saturday, Apr. 27 from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. at the Big Rapids Middle School. There will be local crafters, artists, business, community organizations, food trucks, music, and more.

“Before, we were just an expo,” Band of Locals board member Kelly Rickabus said promoting the event. “Now, we will have business, non-profits, and lots of vendors. It’s a great exposure and networking (opportunity).”

Vendors can sign up and register for a space with the cost of $50. There will be 10 feet by 10 feet booths will be located in the gymnasium and 4 by 12 feet booths will be in the hallways. Pre-event set-up will take place from 8:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M.

“Get out there and support small,” Rickabus said. “You can buy stuff from the big stores, but it’s not going in the pocket your neighbor. In America, that’s what small towns are about: supporting each other.”

For more information on the event or to apply to be a vendor, visit bandoflocals.org.

Monday, April 8

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tuesday, April 9

• At 5:54 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Green TWP. A male subject was arrested on three warrants. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 6:34 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Austin TWP. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 31

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, April 10

• At around 10:00 A.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Millbrook TWP. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At around 2:30 P.M., deputies assisted the U.S. Marshal task force in Big Rapids TWP. A male subject had 2 felony warrants out for his arrest. The male subject was found and arrested. A search was executed on the wanted subjects residence. The male subject is currently lodged at the Mecosta County Jail. Deputies were assisted by the Newaygo County Sheriff's Office ERT and Ferris DPS.

Calls for Service: 31

Traffic Accidents: 2

Thursday, April 11

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 1

Friday, April 12?

• No incidents reported.

Saturday, April 13

• At 4:26 P.M., deputies responded to a domestic at a residence in Colfax TWP. A male subject was arrested for domestic assault and a parole violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 25

Traffic Accidents: 4

Sunday, April 14

• At 10:30 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Colfax TWP. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

???Calls for Service: 21

Traffic Accidents: 1

The Ferris State University men's golf team captured its 22nd all-time Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship by beating rival Grand Valley State University in the league finale on Sunday in Augusta, Mich.

After earning the No. 3 seed following the stroke play portion of the league championships, the Bulldogs advanced to the medal match round and beat Wayne State on Saturday 3-2 to reach the league final. In the championship match, Ferris State then knocked off No. 1 seed GVSU by a 3-0-2 score to emerge with the league title.

This year marks the fifth consecutive time in which the Bulldogs have reached at least the semifinal round at the league men's golf championships and Ferris State’s third title since 2019. Ferris State also won the 2021 championship after no tournament was held in 2020 and reached the finals in 2022 before falling in the semifinals a year ago.

Overall, the Bulldog men's golf squad has now captured 22 GLIAC Men's Golf Championships in school history.

In Sunday's showdown against the Lakers, Ferris State’s McCoy Biagioli was a four-stroke winner while Zach Koerner won his match by seven strokes. Both Nathan Kraynyk and Sam Havey forged ties in their head-to-head contests before Caleb Bond came up with a three-stroke triumph for the Bulldogs. Ferris State did not drop any of the five matches to the Lakers.

The 2024 GLIAC Championships continued the format established four years ago with each league school competing in 36 holes of stroke play and the top four teams advancing to the semifinals. The head-to-head medal match play bracket format for the semifinals and finals was similar to the current format utilized at the NCAA Championships.

This year's event was held again in Augusta with action at the Gull Lake View Golf Club and Resort near Battle Creek on the Stoatin Brae Golf Club course. The par 71 course measured at 6,742 yards. Gull Lake View Golf Club and Resort has become one of the largest golf resorts in the world, featuring six championship courses in one destination.

Ferris State, which was ranked fifth this past week in the NCAA Midwest Regional Rankings entering the conference championships, will await the official NCAA selection announcement set for later this month.

Overall, the Bulldog men's golf squad has now captured 22 GLIAC Men's Golf Championships in school history.

The Big Rapids City Commission meets tomorrow night, Monday, Apr. 15 at city hall at 6:30 P.M to discuss a number of items.

Special orders on the docket include citizen recognition for Thomas Hogenson by the Park And Recreation Board, proclamation for GFWC Federation Day, and proclamation for Arbor Day. The meeting will also include a study session for public input on the 2024-2025 city budget.

Other general business items include resolutions for the following:

• Awarding bid for Runway 27/9 extension at the Roben Hood
  Airport.

• Authorizing a publication of notice of intent to issue capital
  improvement bonds and declaration of intent to reimburse.

• Establishing the City of Big Rapids downtown district as a social
  district and authorizing staff to pursue state licensing.

• Amending Chapter 92 of the Big Rapids Code of Ordinances regarding alcoholic beverages in city parks.

• Amending the Charles E. Fairman 2024 Swimming Pool fee schedule.

• Authorizing a listing agreement with Re/Max Together Realty to sell
  property located at 906 N. State Street.

• Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions.

All city commission meetings are available to the public.

Ferris State University’s College of Pharmacy is in the top tier of graduate pharmacy programs in the nation, based on new rankings from U.S. News and World Report.

Nationally, Ferris State’s program ranked 60^th in a list of 141 schools and colleges offering Doctor of Pharmacy degrees accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. That’s up eight places from the prior ranking.

The U. S. News and World Report said rankings reflect peer assessments of academic quality and research.

Ferris State is in the top three programs in the nation in the Carnegie Class Doctoral/Professional Universities category and is ranked No. 1 among public Doctoral/Professional Universities that offer only the professional degree.

This recognition also reflects significant achievements in research funding from the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health, and advanced practice initiatives.

“Rankings continue to affirm what we’ve long known and celebrated – that Ferris State’s College of Pharmacy is one of the very best in the nation,” Dean Stephen Durst said. “We’re proud of the work of our faculty and staff, but also of the thousands of graduates who are serving their communities on the cutting edge of health care.”

Ferris State’s Pharmacy programs includes more than 1,700 hours of field experience, and coursework with a heavy emphasis on hands-on learning. Students spend the first and second academic years on the Big Rapids campus, and the third year on Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile. The final year of the four-year program utilizes clinical sites through both the upper and lower peninsulas.

Pharmacists are increasingly in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the field is expected to grow by 3 percent through 2032, with about 13,400 openings for pharmacists projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

Information about the College of Pharmacy and how to apply can be found at ferris.edu/pharmacy.

The Ferris State University men's golf team will compete in the 2024 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Championships Friday thru Sunday (April 12-14).

The event will be held again this year in Augusta, Mich., with action at the Gull Lake View Golf Club and Resort near Battle Creek.

The 2024 GLIAC Championships will continue the format established four years ago with each league school competing in 36 holes of stroke play with a single round per day on both Friday and Saturday. The low four of five scores will count towards the respective team score for each squad.

Following round two, the top four teams will advance to head-to-head medal play on Sunday with a bracket format similar to the current format utilized at the NCAA Championships. The two winning teams following semifinal-round play will advance to the finals in which a GLIAC Champion will be crowned.

Gull Lake View Golf Club & Resort has become one of the largest golf resorts in the World, featuring six championship courses in one amazing destination. Golfers can play 18 holes a day for six days, without ever playing the same hole twice.

The men will tee off on Friday at the Stoatin Brae Golf Club course. The par 71 course measures at 6,742 yards.

Overall, the Bulldog men's golf squad has captured 21 GLIAC Men's Golf Championships in school history and won back-to-back medal match play league titles in 2019 and 2021 (no tournament was held in 2020) before earning runner-up honors in 2022. FSU reached the semifinals for the fourth consecutive year a season ago.

Live online scoring will be available throughout the tournament. Visit the link below to follow the action.

GLIAC Men's Golf Championships:
https://results.golfstat.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=team&tid=29041

The Kent County Sheriff's Office has noticed a consistent trend where our youth has access to nicotine vape pens, marijuana, and marijuana-related products.

The Sheriff's Office received information regarding a business in Oakfield Township that is believed to have sold nicotine pens and marijuana to underage children. Last month, after a lengthy investigation, the Kent Area Narcotics Enforcement Team seized 3,200 grams of marijuana and marijuana products, 4,100 vape pens, 2 handguns, and $39,500 from this business. This is still an ongoing investigation.

Kent County Sheriff's Office first received information from the community expressing concern that their children could purchase nicotine vape pens from Nature's Edge, formerly known as Greenville Hydroponics, in Oakfield Township.

Last May, a decoy was able to purchase a nicotine vape pen from this business, despite being under the legal age. The business was cited. 

Months later, an area school resource officer received information that Nature's Edge was selling marijuana and marijuana products to students. This information was also presented to our narcotics team which started an investigation, resulting in 3 search warrants last month.

Kent County Sheriff's Office wants to thank our community for its attentiveness, which keeps our community safer.

Due to inclement weather in west central Michigan, the following baseball and softball games have been postponed in the area:

BASEBALL 4/12

• Reed City @ Big Rapids (Rescheduled Monday, May 13)
• Morley Stanwood @ Chippewa Hills (Rescheduled TBD)
• Onekama @ Pine River (Rescheduled TBD)

BASEBALL 4/13

• Cedar Springs @ Tri-County (Rescheduled Friday, May 17)

SOFTBALL 4/12

• Reed City @ Big Rapids (Rescheduled Monday, May 13)
• Onekama @ Pine River (Rescheduled TBD)

SOFTBALL 4/13

• Cedar Springs @ Tri-County (Rescheduled Friday, May 17)

Proposed make-up dates for Pine River vs. Onekama and Morley Stanwood vs. Chippewa Hills will be announced by each school soon.

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office is advising of a scam the has been going on for the past two days.

The Sheriff’s Office has received several calls from residents around the state of Michigan that have been contacted by phone by what sounds like a Deputy from our office advising them that they have missed court and need to pay a fine. 

This is a scam and the Sheriff’s Office does not call notifying anyone about court dates, fine, or warrants. If you receive one of these calls advise the caller that you know it’s a scam and hang up. If they call back, block their number.

More than 200 high school students and guests are expected to attend Ferris State University’s springtime “Dawg Days” event on Saturday to learn more about how the university can provide a life-changing education.

The event starts at 9 a.m. at the university’s David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive in Big Rapids.

Assistant Director of Orientation Emily Hicks said guests will be joined by hundreds of family members who also learn about the university’s programs, campus life and various Ferris resources from student ambassadors and a variety of faculty and staff members.

“We have been reaching out to prospective students through emails, messaging on a number of social media platforms and offering personal invitations from Admissions recruiters on school visits,” Hicks said. “Our Dawg Day program is a comfortable yet comprehensive view of the Ferris experience for an audience of high school sophomores and juniors, through interactions with college representatives and presentations from our financial aid experts.”

Hicks said their visitors receive a meal from Dining Services and are given a campus tour to visit the Ferris Library for Information, Technology and Education, along with Ferris State residence halls and recreational facilities

“We will also have a summer Dawg Day on Saturday, Aug. 3, prior to Welcome Week for new and returning Ferris students,” Hicks said. “Students are encouraged to contact Admissions as there are visitation programs throughout the spring and summer to learn about campus on a more intimate basis.”

Ferris is approaching the 140th anniversary of its founding Sunday, Sept. 1, as the Big Rapids Industrial School was established in 1884 by Woodbridge N. Ferris and his wife Helen.

Ferris State University has announced season tickets for the 2024 campaign are on sale now.

The Bulldogs enter the 2024 season aiming to make their 10th consecutive postseason playoff appearance as one of the country's top programs. Potential big crowds are expected for all six 2024 regular-season home contests.

This fall's home slate includes early season non-conference matchups against Lake Erie (Sept. 7) and Ashland (Sept. 14) along with league games versus conference newcomer Roosevelt on homecoming (Oct. 5) in addition to contests against Michigan Tech (Oct. 19), Saginaw Valley State (Nov. 9) and the regular-season finale versus Davenport (Nov. 16).

Fans can purchase season tickets thru FSU's digital ticketing platform in partnership with HomeTown Ticketing at FerrisStateBulldogs.com/Tickets.

Bulldog fans can purchase a season ticket for admission to all six home games for only $100 plus applicable online fees, which represents a $20 discount over purchasing each game separately. Once season tickets are purchased, tickets will be emailed to the customer upon checkout and then scanned at the gate on gameday. Tickets can also be printed at home.

In addition to the season ticket package, fans can also purchase a standard season parking pass online this year for only $60 or an RV season parking pass for $180.

Single-game tickets for all 2024 home games will go on sale later this summer along with Gridiron Club memberships in the near future.

For additional information regarding ticket sales, please call the FSU Athletics Ticket office at (231) 591-2888.

The Bulldogs will begin their 115th season of varsity competition this coming fall with their sights set on making a 10th consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Playoffs. The Bulldogs have made five national semifinal appearances along with three trips to the national championship game and back-to-back national titles in 2021 and 2022 during the stretch.

Over the past three seasons of action, the Bulldogs own a 36-4 overall record and FSU has reached the NCAA Division II Playoffs nine consecutive years and counting. Ferris State has also reached the NCAA Division II National Semifinals five times in the past seven seasons of action and ranks as the country's winningest program over the past nine full seasons in D2 Football. FSU is 63-6 over the last four seasons of on-field action, including back-to-back NCAA D2 National Championships in 2021 and 2022.

Ferris State also holds the GLIAC's best mark and the best overall record of all collegiate programs in Michigan at 123-20 (.860) overall since the arrival of Annese as head coach in 2012.

Evart Police Department’s K9 Koda has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Koda’s vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of Toonces and Lloydee”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,514 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.